Messi shortlisted for Ballon d’Or

Lionel Messi is on course for a record-equalling third consecutive Ballon d'Or, soccer's highest individual award, after the Argentine forward was among the three shortlisted nominees named on Monday.

Messi's Barcelona team mate Xavi and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo were also shortlisted.

Messi, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2009 and 2010, will be the favourite to complete a hat-trick of titles after his man-of-the-match performance helped the Spanish side beat Manchester United in the Champions League final in May.